32140 Thoracotomy; with cyst(s) removal, includes pleural procedure when performed

Name of the Procedure:

Thoracotomy with cyst(s) removal, includes pleural procedure when performed. Commonly known as thoracotomy for cyst excision.

Summary

A thoracotomy is a surgical procedure where an incision is made in the chest wall to access the organs within the thoracic cavity. This particular procedure focuses on removing cysts and may include additional pleural procedures if required.

Purpose

The procedure addresses abnormalities like cysts in the chest, which can cause discomfort, breathing issues, or other health concerns. The goal is to remove the cysts, leading to symptom relief and prevention of potential complications associated with the cysts.

Indications

• Presence of cysts in the thoracic cavity as confirmed by medical imaging.
• Symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or recurrent infections.
• Patient's health and physical condition are suitable for surgery.

Preparation

• Patients may be instructed to fast for several hours before the surgery.
• Adjustments to current medications may be necessary.
• Pre-operative assessments such as blood tests, chest X-rays, or CT scans are typically required.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
2. A surgical incision is made in the chest wall to access the thoracic cavity.
3. The surgeon identifies and carefully removes the cyst(s).
4. If needed, additional pleural procedures are performed to ensure no complications arise.
5. The incision is then closed and bandaged.

Specialized surgical instruments and sometimes video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) equipment are used.

Duration

The procedure generally takes between 2 to 4 hours, depending on complexity.

Setting

Performed in a hospital operating room.

Personnel

• Thoracic surgeon
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical assistants

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: bleeding, infection, pain at the incision site.
• Rare risks: damage to surrounding organs, persistent air leak, complications from anesthesia.

Benefits

• Relief from symptoms associated with thoracic cysts.
• Prevention of potential complications like infection or rupture of the cysts.
• Improved breathing and quality of life.

Recovery

• The patient typically stays in the hospital for a few days post-surgery.
• Pain management will be provided.
• Instructions for wound care and activity restrictions will be given.
• Recovery time varies but generally includes several weeks of rest and limited physical activity.
• Follow-up appointments for monitoring healing and addressing any issues.

Alternatives

• Monitoring the cysts with regular imaging if they are asymptomatic and small.
• Minimally invasive procedures like needle aspiration if appropriate.
• Pros and cons depend on the size and symptoms of the cysts, and overall patient health.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient is under general anesthesia and will not feel anything. Post-surgery, there may be discomfort or pain at the incision site, managed by medications. Over time, patients usually experience substantial symptom relief and improved respiratory function.